Studio Classroom Advanced 20061226

Dramatic education

 

In medieval England, literacy was extremely low. Because so few people could read, other ways of imparting and retaining knowledge were needed. One of the ways society was educated was through theatrical productions. These "mystery plays" dramatized stories from the Bible, though not always with complete accuracy. One of the most popular themes was the Christmas story, as in the Second Shepherd's Play. This story told about the birth of Jesus Christ and used songs as a diversion between acts. These musical interludes were the predecessors of what we currently know as Christmas carols. These religious songs fell out of popular use in the 16th century. However, the songs until composers such as Arthur Sullivan revived them in the Victorian era.

Joy to world
Today, many people sing Christmas carols as well as more modern Christmas songs during this festive time of year. Though traditional caroling is not done as frequently some people still go wassailing in the weeks leading up to December 25. Wassailing is an old-fashioned term for caroling that originated in the 1700'. To wassail specifically refers to going house to house, singing carols in order to receive food and drink, or possibly money to be donated to charity. This practice probably originated in medieval times with wandering musicians who would visit castles and perform for the people there in order to earn something to eat. These days it would be unusual for carolers to ring your doorbell and sing for you, then expect something in return. However, the tradition of caroling continues to bring joy to people's live and remind them of the good news of the Christmas season.